2006 Chrysler 300 Fuel Pump Relay Location: A Complete Guide for DIY Owners

If you own a 2006 Chrysler 300 and the engine cranks but won't start, the fuel pump relay is one of the first components you should check. The fuel pump relay for the 2006 Chrysler 300 is located in the Rear Power Distribution Center, which is the fuse and relay box situated in the trunk under the spare tire access panel, near the battery. The relay itself is part of the "Fuel Pump" circuit, and the corresponding fuse for the fuel pump is fuse number 6, a 20-amp yellow mini fuse. This guide walks you through exactly where to find it, how to test it, and what to do if it's faulty.

Where Is the Fuel Pump Relay on a 2006 Chrysler 300?

The 2006 Chrysler 300 has two main power distribution centers: one under the hood (Front Power Distribution Center) and one in the trunk (Rear Power Distribution Center). The fuel pump relay and fuse are both located in the rear unit.

Step-by-step to locate the relay:

  1. Open the trunk and remove the spare tire and the floor panel covering the battery area.
  2. Locate the black plastic fuse box (Rear Power Distribution Center) next to the battery.
  3. Remove the cover of the fuse box. The inside of the cover or the owner's manual will have a diagram showing the layout.
  4. Look for cavity number 6 – this is a 20-amp yellow mini fuse labeled "Fuel Pump". The fuel pump relay is integrated into the same power distribution center, typically near the fuse block. In many Chrysler models, the relay is located in the Power Distribution Center (PDC) near the battery.
  5. The relay itself is a small, rectangular black box that plugs into the fuse box. You can identify it by the diagram on the cover or by checking the relay's label.

Understanding the Fuel Pump Circuit

The fuel pump relay acts as an electrical switch that sends power to the fuel pump when the ignition is turned on. If the relay fails, the fuel pump won't receive power, and the engine won't start. The 20-amp fuse protects this circuit from electrical overload. If the fuse is blown, the fuel pump also won't operate.

Key components in the circuit:

  • Fuel pump fuse (cavity 6): 20-amp yellow mini fuse – protects the fuel pump circuit.
  • Fuel pump relay: Located in the same rear power distribution center – switches power to the fuel pump.
  • Fuel pump itself: Located inside the fuel tank.

How to Test the Fuel Pump Relay

Before replacing the relay, you should test it to confirm it's the problem. Here's a simple testing method using a multimeter or a test light:

What you'll need:

  • Multimeter (set to ohms or continuity)
  • Test light
  • Needle-nose pliers or relay puller

Testing steps:

  1. Locate the relay in the rear power distribution center.
  2. Turn off the ignition and remove the relay using a relay puller or pliers.
  3. Check the relay coil: Set your multimeter to measure resistance (ohms). Touch the probes to terminals 85 and 86 on the relay. You should see a reading between 50 and 120 ohms. If there's no continuity (infinite resistance), the coil is bad and the relay needs replacement.
  4. Check the switch contacts: With the relay still removed, check terminals 30 and 87. There should be no continuity (open circuit) when the relay is at rest. If you apply 12V power to terminals 85 and 86 (using a jumper wire or battery), you should hear a click, and terminals 30 and 87 should now show continuity (closed circuit). If the relay doesn't click or the contacts don't close, the relay is faulty.

Common Symptoms of a Bad Fuel Pump Relay

A failing fuel pump relay can cause several noticeable issues. Watch for these signs:

  1. Engine cranks but won't start – This is the most common symptom. You can hear the starter turning the engine over, but the fuel pump never activates.
  2. Intermittent starting – The car may start fine one day but refuse to start the next. This is a classic sign of a failing relay.
  3. Engine stalls while driving – The relay may lose connection while the engine is running, causing the fuel pump to shut off and the car to stall.
  4. No fuel pump noise – When you turn the ignition to the "ON" position (before starting), you should hear a faint whirring sound from the rear of the car for 2-3 seconds. This is the fuel pump priming. If you don't hear this sound, the relay or fuse may be the issue.
  5. Check Engine Light – The car's computer may detect a fuel system issue and illuminate the check engine light. Use an OBD-II scanner to read trouble codes.

How to Replace the Fuel Pump Relay

Replacing the fuel pump relay is a straightforward job that most DIY owners can handle in about 10 minutes.

Steps:

  1. Turn off the ignition and make sure the key is out of the ignition.
  2. Open the trunk and remove the spare tire and access panel to reach the rear power distribution center.
  3. Locate the fuel pump relay using the diagram on the fuse box cover.
  4. Pull out the old relay using a relay puller tool or needle-nose pliers. Pull straight up to avoid bending the pins.
  5. Install the new relay by aligning the pins with the slots in the fuse box. Push it in firmly until it clicks into place.
  6. Test the repair by turning the ignition to the "ON" position. Listen for the fuel pump priming sound. If you hear it, the relay is working. Start the engine to confirm.

Important Safety Tips

  • Always work with the engine off and the key removed from the ignition to prevent electrical shorts or accidental starting.
  • If the fuse is blown, replace it with a fuse of the exact same amperage rating (20 amps). Using a higher-amp fuse can damage the wiring or cause a fire.
  • Keep spare fuses and relays in your vehicle for emergencies. A blown fuse can leave you stranded, and having spares on hand can save you a tow truck call.
  • If the new relay blows a fuse immediately, you may have a short circuit in the fuel pump wiring or a failing fuel pump itself. In that case, further diagnosis is needed.

Why Choose a High-Quality Replacement Fuel Pump?

If you've diagnosed the problem and it turns out to be the fuel pump itself rather than the relay, you need a reliable replacement. A failing fuel pump can cause the same symptoms as a bad relay – engine cranks but won't start, stalling, or poor acceleration.

Recommended Solution: KEMSO Fuel Pump

For a durable, OEM-quality replacement, consider the KEMSO Fuel Pump. KEMSO is a leading aftermarket fuel pump brand in the United States, known for manufacturing high-performance fuel pumps that meet or exceed OEM specifications. All KEMSO fuel pumps are built to OEM standards, ensuring a perfect fit and reliable performance for your 2006 Chrysler 300. They are designed to handle the demands of daily driving while maintaining consistent fuel pressure. Best of all, every KEMSO fuel pump comes with a lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected. Whether you're replacing the fuel pump due to age, wear, or failure, KEMSO offers a cost-effective, high-quality solution that keeps your vehicle on the road without breaking the bank.

Visit KEMSO's website to find the right fuel pump for your Chrysler 300: https://www.kemsoracing.com/

Final Thoughts

The fuel pump relay on a 2006 Chrysler 300 is located in the trunk's rear power distribution center, and the fuel pump fuse is cavity number 6 (20-amp yellow). Testing and replacing the relay is a simple DIY job that can save you a trip to the mechanic. If you've confirmed the relay and fuse are good but the car still won't start, the fuel pump itself may be the problem. In that case, a high-quality replacement like the KEMSO Fuel Pump, backed by a lifetime warranty, is a smart choice for long-term reliability. Always refer to your owner's manual for the exact layout and specifications for your specific vehicle trim level.

For more information on fuel pumps and replacement parts, visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/.


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